Help me pick the best UY & resort for our family of 5!

[AstroBlasters]

Right now I'm leaning towards CCV resale, 150 pts or right under. Then we'll wait and see what happens when the new Poly goes on sale. If Riv direct gets really cheap, and we are loving DVC, I might buy in there too as my husband really liked it when we went yesterday. The resale side of that sucks, so it would have to be a fantastic direct deal for us to jump in.

I've been following the ROFR threads, so I have a good idea of what things are selling for. I've been set on trying to snag as many points as I can, so SSR in the $80s is such a tempting thing, but I've read a lot of concern about the annual dues increasing more rapidly b/c of the scope of the property. I don't think we can do BLT, it's just not something I would ever look forward to staying at, refurb coming or not.

If you are fine with the transportation options, then CCV is a great choice for a value buyer!

 

[jolynne28]

If you are fine with the transportation options, then CCV is a great choice for a value buyer!

I know what you mean. We stay at FW a few times a year so are used to the boat wait. Buses are not fun there, honestly we drive most places we just find it easier. Parking at WL isn’t the best though snd their buses can take a while with the extra stop. When we’re at the fort you park right at your site so driving is super easy.

 

[jolynne28]

Just to add, I know it sounds contradictory to say I’m not outdoorsy, but we have an rv and stay at fort wilderness. We bought a used travel trailer pre covid specifically to travel to Disney with my parents and their motorhome. We redid the inside, it’s actually really nice, but we are basically glamping.

 

[tidefan]

I know what you mean. We stay at FW a few times a year so are used to the boat wait. Buses are not fun there, honestly we drive most places we just find it easier. Parking at WL isn’t the best though snd their buses can take a while with the extra stop. When we’re at the fort you park right at your site so driving is super easy.

Favorite loop???

 

[jolynne28]

Favorite loop???

Ha well we’ve done probably every category and have actually loved each one, maybe we just lucked out with good sites? We enjoyed 1600 over the summer, but regretted not having a gc. We did 300 for Halloween and it was fantastic. We’ve done 400 and 800 too, but probably like being closer to settlement/marina the most. The clover leaf was amazing at Halloween but I’m glad we weren’t staying there, it was so busy with the haunted mansion display.

 

[tidefan]

Ha well we’ve done probably every category and have actually loved each one, maybe we just lucked out with good sites? We enjoyed 1600 over the summer, but regretted not having a gc. We did 300 for Halloween and it was fantastic. We’ve done 400 and 800 too, but probably like being closer to settlement/marina the most. The clover leaf was amazing at Halloween but I’m glad we weren’t staying there, it was so busy with the haunted mansion display.

We were in 200 over Thanksgiving and absolutely loved it. Close to everything!

 

[jolynne28]

I'm deep into over-analysis paralysis right now. There are too many scenarios that make sense, I'm not feeling strongly about anything.
I've thrown Poly resale back into the mix, b/c even if they make the new tower a separate association and we can't stay there, there's a lot to be said for those two shower larger studios and the quick walk to TTC for monorail to EPCOT. Even the longer walk back to Poly from MK could be better at certain times than waiting on the monorail.
To go along with that, I'm thinking that we may want to buy Riv direct in the future, b/c I can't shake the thought that they will be deeply discounted once the new Poly tower goes on sale and the location is fantastic b/c of the Skyliner. But I've also heard that they have no problems selling rooms there so aren't in a hurry to close our their DVC sales.
CCV and SSR are my other top contenders, I can't talk myself into a 2042 contract no matter how hard I try. I know Poly and CCV will be easier to rent out should we start to go less as the kids get older, so that's a positive over SSR. And SSR has the potential for a much larger MF increase each year do to the scale of the resort.
Maybe I need to hear what a great contract would be at either CCV, SSR, Poly that you would absolutely have to jump on, couldn't pass up.

 

[LittleBitGoofy]

I keep trying to make SSR work in my head for SAP. But for now, I'd be disappointed if we got "stuck" at SSR instead of one we really wanted due to availability. The upfront cost is nothing to sneeze at, but it's the long run dues that add up. I'd rather pay the extra $X now and get home advantage than to have still paid $Y (SSR) and be disappointed, because Y isn't a small number either.

Poly scares me away now with the threat of overcrowding with the additional tower capacity on an already busy location. But I am sure it'll be an amazing place when it's done.

If you're concerned with direct perks then that changes the debate. We're a hybrid with direct VGF, resale BCV (yes, short contract is disappointing, but it's to enjoy with the kids while they're kids and that too will be short), and eyeing a small (100 pt) CCR to combo with excess pts from the other two.

 

[🍀TwinsMom]

What are your kids' ages and M/F ratios? Favorite parks? Do you enjoy Epcot festivals and scavenger hunts? Are you rope droppers or fireworks/late night folks? How important is transportation? On-site dining? Do you plan to drive and park, or Uber into the resort and just use WDW transportation?

I know you love CC, and I don't blame you. It's awesome, and you need to own there for any holiday fall/winter. If you go there, you'll need a two-bedroom, which is not a bad thing, because I think that's where you'll end up eventually, anyway, as your kids age and they want to bring a friend or cousin or grandparents, etc.

I would rather own where you KNOW you love rather than a boatload of SS points that you need to fight for a piecemeal reservation or being "stuck" there, if SS isn't your jam. I think the dues at SS could be an issue, so WL hotel side diluting the maintenance is a nice perk in CC's favor.

If you can't do CC, I wouldn't necessarily do Poly. Yes, you'll make due with a studio and should have access to the tower, but that point chart is going to be crazy high for a one or two-bedroom there. So, whatever Poly points you buy to squeeze into a studio, because Poly costs more than CC for a buy-in, you'll be short on points for the tower larger room categories and still not have home booking advantage at your favorite -- CC.

I think an argument can be made for Riviera direct. You are a party of five. If you decide to do APs, that $300-$400 off per person for the sorcerer pass is a good deal. You'll get that first year of bonus points, unless you sell it back for Magical Beginnings (if that's still a discount in play when you buy in,) you can definitely be comfortable in a studio there for a while, and you need to own at Riviera to nab those standard views in any category. We're no longer MK nuts, prefer Epcot and HS, and the Skyliner is just SO freaking convenient. And, yes, we have traveled in July, August, and September -- and December twice, February, and April, and so far only had it shut down on us once due to the rain. Yes, I know that's just anecdotal, but I feel like the rain/Skyliner anti-Riviera hullabaloo is also overblown anecdotal evidence, too.

So far, Riviera is the only Epcot DVC without a 2042 expiration. It's #4 is terms of cost effectiveness, and the resale prices have held steady around $125-$130. I think when it's sold out in another year or two and BC/BW are at +/-15 years, its value is going to appreciate nicely. Will we see Beach Club run-up in prices? Probably not. But I don't foresee that happening with any DVC resort in inventory right now, either. Riviera rooms are laid out great, and you have everything from Tower Studios for a couple's weekend to the Grand Villas, which are to die for. I'm not putting as much stock into the promise of direct buying getting you into the new exclusive DVC resorts since they keep pulling the rug out from under us with flips of existing resorts (yes, still salty,) but once you're in direct with blue card and all that jazz, you're grandfathered in for whatever comes in the future.

If you like CC best, I cannot imagine you liking anything about BLT. It's beyond diametrically opposite everything you like about CC. That short stroller walk to MK is only a big deal for ages 0-6, and even then, I cannot imagine spending $30-$50k for that location with the aesthetic there. I do think that's where the deal hunters go all in on SS and BLT, and intellectually I totally understand, and maybe if we had flexibility in our schedules it would be a non issue, but the value doesn't match the warm fuzzies I get at other resorts.

Honestly, if you already like WDW and DVC, a lot will change with your vacation habits. Even if you are dyed-in-the-wool studio folks for life, and there's lots of folks who are, you probably won't be doing marathon days. When you get over the FOMO and can go more often with APs and DVC accommodations covered, you really appreciate the resorts themselves more than the parks. You start planning trips around pools and dining that you like, walkability/transportation for seasonal weather extremes, resort-only stays when you can't afford park tickets or APs because you already went twice this year already. The kids meet up with friends on April vacation who are traveling the same time. Your kid has a gymnastics/Pop Warner/band/something else held in January/February to attend at WDW or in Orlando, so where do they want to go for a weekend? You decide to try Animal Kingdom and realize it's AMAZING to look out your balcony in your pajamas all morning at zebras and giraffes.

So far we have liked each resort for different reasons. Even BLT, their Grand Villa was VERY cool. That window overlooking the park was beautiful, and I really liked its layout. Would I do a week there? No. But a couple days midweek checking out the holiday party fireworks would be cool! Old Key West was soooo homey and peaceful, and the kids at the community hall and pool were just SO fun. Our kids and the ones already there just clicked and played spontaneously in the pool, did arts and crafts together. We liked it so much we debated a small resale contract there.

Beach Club, we didn't like Stormalong Bay, but our room was RIGHT next to the quiet pool, and it was magical to let the kids walk out of our slider to go in the pool.

Animal Kingdom is a foodie's paradise.

Boulder Ridge has the homiest zen lobby with those plush leather chairs by the fireplace in the train room. Get me a bottle of wine and a brick of cheese in there and never bother me again.

Don't stress TOO much. All the resorts have something cool going for them.

 

[AstroBlasters]

I'm deep into over-analysis paralysis right now. There are too many scenarios that make sense, I'm not feeling strongly about anything.
I've thrown Poly resale back into the mix, b/c even if they make the new tower a separate association and we can't stay there, there's a lot to be said for those two shower larger studios and the quick walk to TTC for monorail to EPCOT. Even the longer walk back to Poly from MK could be better at certain times than waiting on the monorail.
To go along with that, I'm thinking that we may want to buy Riv direct in the future, b/c I can't shake the thought that they will be deeply discounted once the new Poly tower goes on sale and the location is fantastic b/c of the Skyliner. But I've also heard that they have no problems selling rooms there so aren't in a hurry to close our their DVC sales.
CCV and SSR are my other top contenders, I can't talk myself into a 2042 contract no matter how hard I try. I know Poly and CCV will be easier to rent out should we start to go less as the kids get older, so that's a positive over SSR. And SSR has the potential for a much larger MF increase each year do to the scale of the resort.
Maybe I need to hear what a great contract would be at either CCV, SSR, Poly that you would absolutely have to jump on, couldn't pass up.

CCV is due for a refresh within the next 18m… prices will likely go up after that.

Also, the longer you wait the less points you have and the more you will spend out of pocket for vacation accommodations until you use your points. Resale can already take up to 90 days between offer and points loading…

https://dvcnews.com/dvc-program-menu/general-dvc-news/5196-dvc-resort-refurbishment-tracker

 

[tidefan]

Don't stress TOO much. All the resorts have something cool going for them.

^^^This^^^

Our goal, though granted we’ve owned since 2007, has been to stay at all the DVC resorts. And guess what, we’ve loved all of them for different reasons. The big thing, I think, is that you will get 1,000 different opinions here, and for those 1,000 different people, they are all correct. There’s no one “correct” answer, just the answer that fits you.

For instance, our situation may not be anything like yours. We bought in 2007 when DD was really young. Now, she’s almost out of college and things have changed, but we still love DVC, we just do it differently. One nice thing is that we’ve stayed in every DVC property with the exception of VDH (though we have stayed at the DL Hotel). It’s fun to see all the different locations and they all have something to offer. But we like different properties for different reasons.

• We own at SSR, BLT, VGF, and PVB, but we only really use the 11 month booking window for BLT at Labor Day for a STD. view studio for MNSSHP.
• We plan stays depending on what our party mix is going to be. If we are going with friends for a more resort oriented stay, we like to book Kidani STD View 2-bedrooms because the space and extra bathroom is great as is the points chart.
• If we are going as a couple, we like the BLT studios (I know, a minority view) because it has by far the best kitchenette setup of any of the studios and we tend to cook a bit in the unit.
• We love the SSR renovations. It is almost a different resort than it was pre-COVID. We find SSR to be beautiful and it has a very underrated pool situation as we feel the pools at SSR are some of the best in the system. We love staying here. Another side benefit is that it makes getting in the Gideon’s virtual queue so easy! Also, since we always drive, it is so convenient to park near your unit. We also prefer SSR to OKW because of the fact that there is an elevator in each building.
• We absolutely LOVE Aulani. It is by far our favorite resort. We saved up points to go back in 2012. We loved it so much that we have had 6 “once in a lifetime” trips. We always get an IV 2-bedroom and bring friends. I could go to Aulani every year, especially now that Southwest flies there and makes it so easy. You can also combine a trip to DL on the way back. When WDW stopped AP sales, we actually went 3 years in a row as it was cheaper to go to Hawaii than it was for us to go to Florida and buy date-based tickets multiple times a year.
• We’ve stayed at BCV and BW, but they were probably one and done for us. At BW, the parking situation is a nightmare (which, if you don’t drive, doesn’t matter), and we liked BCV, but it’s hard to get into if you don’t own there. Also, the DVC building is pushed out to the side. That said, I’d like to do a Boardwalk View room at least once (we were pool view when we stayed).
• I love WL, but actually prefer the rooms at BR over CCV. CCV are converted hotel rooms and the rooms at BR are better setup IMHO (come to think if it, i think this, along with the infinitely better parking situation, is why i like Kidani better than Jambo). I also like that WL is one hotel that still lets you use the luggage carts on your own.
• Don’t discount VB and HHI. They are a bit off the beaten path, but are wonderful in their own right.
• In what I’m sure will be an unpopular opinion, I just don’t get what all the fuss over RIV is about. We stayed in a GV, actually, and while it was nice, I didn’t really think it was any nicer than the renovated SSR GV. I do like that it has the split bath studios, but so does VGF1 Deluxe Studios and the Poly longhouses and if I’m going to spend the amount of points to stay in one of those, to us both Poly and VGF are much more our taste than RIV. I am not really sure what it is about RIV that I don’t get, but I just don’t love it. It’s just not my cup of tea. I know that others love it, but for me, I’d rather stay elsewhere and save points or if I’m going to splurge, I’ll stay at VGF (if I can get in a Deluxe Studio anymore - I do not care for the hotel rooms) or Poly.

But this is just us. We are all different. You need to see what it is that fits your situation and just go from there. There is no “wrong” answer.

 

[MerlinandtheMouse]

What are your kids' ages and M/F ratios? Favorite parks? Do you enjoy Epcot festivals and scavenger hunts? Are you rope droppers or fireworks/late night folks? How important is transportation? On-site dining? Do you plan to drive and park, or Uber into the resort and just use WDW transportation?

I know you love CC, and I don't blame you. It's awesome, and you need to own there for any holiday fall/winter. If you go there, you'll need a two-bedroom, which is not a bad thing, because I think that's where you'll end up eventually, anyway, as your kids age and they want to bring a friend or cousin or grandparents, etc.

I would rather own where you KNOW you love rather than a boatload of SS points that you need to fight for a piecemeal reservation or being "stuck" there, if SS isn't your jam. I think the dues at SS could be an issue, so WL hotel side diluting the maintenance is a nice perk in CC's favor.

If you can't do CC, I wouldn't necessarily do Poly. Yes, you'll make due with a studio and should have access to the tower, but that point chart is going to be crazy high for a one or two-bedroom there. So, whatever Poly points you buy to squeeze into a studio, because Poly costs more than CC for a buy-in, you'll be short on points for the tower larger room categories and still not have home booking advantage at your favorite -- CC.

I think an argument can be made for Riviera direct. You are a party of five. If you decide to do APs, that $300-$400 off per person for the sorcerer pass is a good deal. You'll get that first year of bonus points, unless you sell it back for Magical Beginnings (if that's still a discount in play when you buy in,) you can definitely be comfortable in a studio there for a while, and you need to own at Riviera to nab those standard views in any category. We're no longer MK nuts, prefer Epcot and HS, and the Skyliner is just SO freaking convenient. And, yes, we have traveled in July, August, and September -- and December twice, February, and April, and so far only had it shut down on us once due to the rain. Yes, I know that's just anecdotal, but I feel like the rain/Skyliner anti-Riviera hullabaloo is also overblown anecdotal evidence, too.

So far, Riviera is the only Epcot DVC without a 2042 expiration. It's #4 is terms of cost effectiveness, and the resale prices have held steady around $125-$130. I think when it's sold out in another year or two and BC/BW are at +/-15 years, its value is going to appreciate nicely. Will we see Beach Club run-up in prices? Probably not. But I don't foresee that happening with any DVC resort in inventory right now, either. Riviera rooms are laid out great, and you have everything from Tower Studios for a couple's weekend to the Grand Villas, which are to die for. I'm not putting as much stock into the promise of direct buying getting you into the new exclusive DVC resorts since they keep pulling the rug out from under us with flips of existing resorts (yes, still salty,) but once you're in direct with blue card and all that jazz, you're grandfathered in for whatever comes in the future.

If you like CC best, I cannot imagine you liking anything about BLT. It's beyond diametrically opposite everything you like about CC. That short stroller walk to MK is only a big deal for ages 0-6, and even then, I cannot imagine spending $30-$50k for that location with the aesthetic there. I do think that's where the deal hunters go all in on SS and BLT, and intellectually I totally understand, and maybe if we had flexibility in our schedules it would be a non issue, but the value doesn't match the warm fuzzies I get at other resorts.

Honestly, if you already like WDW and DVC, a lot will change with your vacation habits. Even if you are dyed-in-the-wool studio folks for life, and there's lots of folks who are, you probably won't be doing marathon days. When you get over the FOMO and can go more often with APs and DVC accommodations covered, you really appreciate the resorts themselves more than the parks. You start planning trips around pools and dining that you like, walkability/transportation for seasonal weather extremes, resort-only stays when you can't afford park tickets or APs because you already went twice this year already. The kids meet up with friends on April vacation who are traveling the same time. Your kid has a gymnastics/Pop Warner/band/something else held in January/February to attend at WDW or in Orlando, so where do they want to go for a weekend? You decide to try Animal Kingdom and realize it's AMAZING to look out your balcony in your pajamas all morning at zebras and giraffes.

So far we have liked each resort for different reasons. Even BLT, their Grand Villa was VERY cool. That window overlooking the park was beautiful, and I really liked its layout. Would I do a week there? No. But a couple days midweek checking out the holiday party fireworks would be cool! Old Key West was soooo homey and peaceful, and the kids at the community hall and pool were just SO fun. Our kids and the ones already there just clicked and played spontaneously in the pool, did arts and crafts together. We liked it so much we debated a small resale contract there.

Beach Club, we didn't like Stormalong Bay, but our room was RIGHT next to the quiet pool, and it was magical to let the kids walk out of our slider to go in the pool.

Animal Kingdom is a foodie's paradise.

Boulder Ridge has the homiest zen lobby with those plush leather chairs by the fireplace in the train room. Get me a bottle of wine and a brick of cheese in there and never bother me again.

Don't stress TOO much. All the resorts have something cool going for them.

CCV is due for a refresh within the next 18m… prices will likely go up after that.

Also, the longer you wait the less points you have and the more you will spend out of pocket for vacation accommodations until you use your points. Resale can already take up to 90 days between offer and points loading…

https://dvcnews.com/dvc-program-menu/general-dvc-news/5196-dvc-resort-refurbishment-tracker

Y’all are making me want to buy more points damn it!

OP, agree with all the above, especially TwinsMom, go with your gut and you won’t be disappointed, like she said, each resort offers something special, you just need to get started to really appreciate it.

 

[dez1978]

I only have a family of 4, but my kids can't sleep in the same bed bc they are flip flopping around all night keeping each other awake, so we only look at rooms with 3 sleeping surfaces, and I prefer real beds, not pull out couches. So Riviera, SSR are 2 that work. BLT and CC are out. BR too as I don't count the couch lol. I believe AKL only has the pull out couches and chairs with 1 real bed. I think BC and BWV studios sleep 5 but the 1 bdrm only 4.

 

[jolynne28]

What are your kids' ages and M/F ratios? Favorite parks? Do you enjoy Epcot festivals and scavenger hunts? Are you rope droppers or fireworks/late night folks? How important is transportation? On-site dining? Do you plan to drive and park, or Uber into the resort and just use WDW transportation?

I know you love CC, and I don't blame you. It's awesome, and you need to own there for any holiday fall/winter. If you go there, you'll need a two-bedroom, which is not a bad thing, because I think that's where you'll end up eventually, anyway, as your kids age and they want to bring a friend or cousin or grandparents, etc.

I would rather own where you KNOW you love rather than a boatload of SS points that you need to fight for a piecemeal reservation or being "stuck" there, if SS isn't your jam. I think the dues at SS could be an issue, so WL hotel side diluting the maintenance is a nice perk in CC's favor.

If you can't do CC, I wouldn't necessarily do Poly. Yes, you'll make due with a studio and should have access to the tower, but that point chart is going to be crazy high for a one or two-bedroom there. So, whatever Poly points you buy to squeeze into a studio, because Poly costs more than CC for a buy-in, you'll be short on points for the tower larger room categories and still not have home booking advantage at your favorite -- CC.

I think an argument can be made for Riviera direct. You are a party of five. If you decide to do APs, that $300-$400 off per person for the sorcerer pass is a good deal. You'll get that first year of bonus points, unless you sell it back for Magical Beginnings (if that's still a discount in play when you buy in,) you can definitely be comfortable in a studio there for a while, and you need to own at Riviera to nab those standard views in any category. We're no longer MK nuts, prefer Epcot and HS, and the Skyliner is just SO freaking convenient. And, yes, we have traveled in July, August, and September -- and December twice, February, and April, and so far only had it shut down on us once due to the rain. Yes, I know that's just anecdotal, but I feel like the rain/Skyliner anti-Riviera hullabaloo is also overblown anecdotal evidence, too.

So far, Riviera is the only Epcot DVC without a 2042 expiration. It's #4 is terms of cost effectiveness, and the resale prices have held steady around $125-$130. I think when it's sold out in another year or two and BC/BW are at +/-15 years, its value is going to appreciate nicely. Will we see Beach Club run-up in prices? Probably not. But I don't foresee that happening with any DVC resort in inventory right now, either. Riviera rooms are laid out great, and you have everything from Tower Studios for a couple's weekend to the Grand Villas, which are to die for. I'm not putting as much stock into the promise of direct buying getting you into the new exclusive DVC resorts since they keep pulling the rug out from under us with flips of existing resorts (yes, still salty,) but once you're in direct with blue card and all that jazz, you're grandfathered in for whatever comes in the future.

If you like CC best, I cannot imagine you liking anything about BLT. It's beyond diametrically opposite everything you like about CC. That short stroller walk to MK is only a big deal for ages 0-6, and even then, I cannot imagine spending $30-$50k for that location with the aesthetic there. I do think that's where the deal hunters go all in on SS and BLT, and intellectually I totally understand, and maybe if we had flexibility in our schedules it would be a non issue, but the value doesn't match the warm fuzzies I get at other resorts.

Honestly, if you already like WDW and DVC, a lot will change with your vacation habits. Even if you are dyed-in-the-wool studio folks for life, and there's lots of folks who are, you probably won't be doing marathon days. When you get over the FOMO and can go more often with APs and DVC accommodations covered, you really appreciate the resorts themselves more than the parks. You start planning trips around pools and dining that you like, walkability/transportation for seasonal weather extremes, resort-only stays when you can't afford park tickets or APs because you already went twice this year already. The kids meet up with friends on April vacation who are traveling the same time. Your kid has a gymnastics/Pop Warner/band/something else held in January/February to attend at WDW or in Orlando, so where do they want to go for a weekend? You decide to try Animal Kingdom and realize it's AMAZING to look out your balcony in your pajamas all morning at zebras and giraffes.

So far we have liked each resort for different reasons. Even BLT, their Grand Villa was VERY cool. That window overlooking the park was beautiful, and I really liked its layout. Would I do a week there? No. But a couple days midweek checking out the holiday party fireworks would be cool! Old Key West was soooo homey and peaceful, and the kids at the community hall and pool were just SO fun. Our kids and the ones already there just clicked and played spontaneously in the pool, did arts and crafts together. We liked it so much we debated a small resale contract there.

Beach Club, we didn't like Stormalong Bay, but our room was RIGHT next to the quiet pool, and it was magical to let the kids walk out of our slider to go in the pool.

Animal Kingdom is a foodie's paradise.

Boulder Ridge has the homiest zen lobby with those plush leather chairs by the fireplace in the train room. Get me a bottle of wine and a brick of cheese in there and never bother me again.

Don't stress TOO much. All the resorts have something cool going for them.

Thanks for the very thoughtful reply. Kids are 10m, 7f, 5m. We will always want to do MK, Haunted Mansion is hands down my fav ride simply for nostalgia and it's just so easy to get around that park, but we are definitely Epcot/HS people, which is why Riv is so appealing. We hate rope drop, we prefer to stay out late and sleep in. We don't care so much to see the fireworks, we've seen them too many times as it is and would rather squeeze in some rides while lines are short most nights. I do like to have good dining options, but we are also willing to drive, being 2 hours away means we always have our car and find it just as easy to drive even to parks sometimes than to take Disney transportation.

I haven't technically set foot in BLT, and know about the refurb, but it's just not calling to me at all knowing how much we love the theming of WL. We really liked the vibe at SSR when we went, it's so nice to be able to park by your room. It seemed very relaxed and quiet. We liked the room we were shown. DS being so close with good dining options is a plus IMO. I just worry that the Mrs might get crazy in the next 10 years or so. But that could happen at any of the properties theoretically.

Years ago DH got food poisoning at Jiko, and we just did Sanaa in September and were not very impressed, so Boma is the only place left to try there. I do like that resort, but not as much as WL.

I agree with what you're saying about Poly, I am certain the point chart for the new tower is going to be high. I would say we definitely enjoy the vibe there too, but it feels so cramped in the lobby.

Direct benefits don't matter so much to us, we already have access to Sorcerer being residents. The dining 20% off is a nice perk, dining adds up quick at the pre fixed restaurants. I think we would only buy direct if the price point was the same or better like the VGF deal this past summer.

 

[tom1944]

Y’all are making me want to buy more points damn it!

OP, agree with all the above, especially TwinsMom, go with your gut and you won’t be disappointed, like she said, each resort offers something special, you just need to get started to really appreciate it.

The each resort offers something special is why over a ten year period I want to stay at all of them at least once.

I figure we will take our chances and be flexible while using SAP. It helps that our trips will be last half of August or January.

 

[LittleBitGoofy]

Maybe a mix of CCV and SSR? Home advantage for CCV and then boost your buying power with the less expensive SSR. Resale all the way then since you're FL residents.

 

[🍀TwinsMom]

Hmmmm, well that DOES change things! Good information to have. So you really like SS and aren't just looking to collect points. You have a car and are semi local, so that means you can park and schlep all the creature comforts from home and park right outside SS. The Grand Villa at SS is GORGEOUS, and sounds like you're foodies who would enjoy Disney Springs access for dining. You could do studios, 1B/2B at SS, whereas CC you kind of need to buy for 2B+ for your group size.

CC has good food options on site, away from the elements, and a lovely boat ride to MK for your favorite rides. You have a car to get to Epcot/HS.

So, maybe look at resort amenities at CC versus flexibility at SS for more points. I do think your point about the SS dues could be a slight issue. Sounds like you like but don't love Riviera, and you have no need for the direct benefits. Compare pools! CC has access to BR pools, too, and gets raves for theming. I hear good things about the different SS pools, too, though.

IDK! Now you've slightly convinced me 55% SS versus 45% CC, only because of the flexibility of room choices there and having a car, which changes a lot when you're not dependent on WDW transportation. You could always get a crap-ton of SS points and shoot for a cabin at CC! IDK how availability is on those during the holidays, never looked into it, but that SS GV is equal to the cabins, to me, just in terms of usability. They don't have the wow factor of the cabins in that setting, but they are beautiful. As well, you could luck out on a CC waitlist for a 2B during the holidays since you said you're not looking for a full week, more a longer weekend. I wouldn't COUNT on it, but things do get canceled and waitlists can happen.

Maybe do it as a direct money comparison basis. I think you'd need at least 250-300 points CC to go yearly. If that's not in the budget, SS sounds like a really good tie!

 

[Mikey15]

I'm deep into over-analysis paralysis right now. There are too many scenarios that make sense, I'm not feeling strongly about anything.
I've thrown Poly resale back into the mix, b/c even if they make the new tower a separate association and we can't stay there, there's a lot to be said for those two shower larger studios and the quick walk to TTC for monorail to EPCOT. Even the longer walk back to Poly from MK could be better at certain times than waiting on the monorail.
To go along with that, I'm thinking that we may want to buy Riv direct in the future, b/c I can't shake the thought that they will be deeply discounted once the new Poly tower goes on sale and the location is fantastic b/c of the Skyliner. But I've also heard that they have no problems selling rooms there so aren't in a hurry to close our their DVC sales.
CCV and SSR are my other top contenders, I can't talk myself into a 2042 contract no matter how hard I try. I know Poly and CCV will be easier to rent out should we start to go less as the kids get older, so that's a positive over SSR. And SSR has the potential for a much larger MF increase each year do to the scale of the resort.
Maybe I need to hear what a great contract would be at either CCV, SSR, Poly that you would absolutely have to jump on, couldn't pass up.

Not trying to talk you out of Poly (I love that resort too). It is closeish and nice to be able to go through security there and get on, especially in Moorea or Pago Pago. Drawback is if you did end up wanting larger rooms at the tower as your little ones outgrow the longhouse 5th sleeping spot, that advantage goes away. It’s looking like a ~5 minute walk from the tower to GCH or the DHS/AK bus stops, and probably over 10 to get to TTC Epcot monorail ramp. Meanwhile, CCV is really close to the WL bus stops, no matter what room type you go with (well, not counting cabins).

There’s also the points differences to consider. CCV points charts aren’t that much more than Congress Park at SSR for 1-2 bedrooms. The Poly tower chart will certainly be more in line with Riviera and VGF which would mean a lot more points to stay in one of those rooms for the same length of trip.

But the biggest drawback for CCV for you would have to be the 1 bedroom only sleeping 4. Unless that changes at the refresh somehow, I’m assuming you’d only be able to book 2 bedrooms?

 

[jolynne28]

Not trying to talk you out of Poly (I love that resort too). It is closeish and nice to be able to go through security there and get on, especially in Moorea or Pago Pago. Drawback is if you did end up wanting larger rooms at the tower as your little ones outgrow the longhouse 5th sleeping spot, that advantage goes away. It’s looking like a ~5 minute walk from the tower to GCH or the DHS/AK bus stops, and probably over 10 to get to TTC Epcot monorail ramp. Meanwhile, CCV is really close to the WL bus stops, no matter what room type you go with (well, not counting cabins).

There’s also the points differences to consider. CCV points charts aren’t that much more than Congress Park at SSR for 1-2 bedrooms. The Poly tower chart will certainly be more in line with Riviera and VGF which would mean a lot more points to stay in one of those rooms for the same length of trip.

But the biggest drawback for CCV for you would have to be the 1 bedroom only sleeping 4. Unless that changes at the refresh somehow, I’m assuming you’d only be able to book 2 bedrooms?

I don't disagree with what you are saying about Poly. At this point I'm feeling like there's no "perfect" choice, we just need to make the one that's best for us. I'm typically a very practical person, but Dis does have an emotional pull on me. So DH needs to make the final call probably on where we buy.
We can do 2 studios at CCV for the same amount of points as the 1 bedroom and have two bathrooms.

 

[AstroBlasters]

I don't disagree with what you are saying about Poly. At this point I'm feeling like there's no "perfect" choice, we just need to make the one that's best for us. I'm typically a very practical person, but Dis does have an emotional pull on me. So DH needs to make the final call probably on where we buy.
We can do 2 studios at CCV for the same amount of points as the 1 bedroom and have two bathrooms.

Given the small kids who like MK and room sizing… Perhaps consider not completely ruling out BLT being the most practical for a value buyer at today’s pricing and dues….

Great resort to book as a just in case and then look to use as SAP for other resorts at 7m… you know you will always have a short walk to a park entrance, low dues, monorail access, and an extra bathroom in a 1Bd/2Bd.